Join us for the opening of Giorgos Ioannou’s retrospective painting exhibition, “Persistent Presences,” at the Municipal Art Gallery of Thessaloniki – Casa Bianca building on Friday, June 23, 2023, at 7:30 PM. The exhibition, presented by the City of Thessaloniki, the Directorate of Culture and Tourism, the Municipal Art Gallery of Thessaloniki, the City of Athens, and the City of Athens Culture, Sports and Youth Organization (OPANDA), features over 100 paintings and archival materials, including photographs, personal objects, and drawings. Giorgos Ioannou’s artworks showcase his artistic journey, from his earliest pieces during the Occupation to his latest works in 2008. He uses his unique visual language to portray people, everyday life, and contemporary issues in his narrative paintings. His art is rich in memories, references, notes, and colour, reflecting his emotional and introspective identity. With symbols, reminders, and criticism, his painting invites us to explore and interpret a fantasy world that is multifaceted and boundless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The art historian-museologist, Dr Katerina Koskina, notes about the exhibition and the artist’s work: “……G. Ioannou’s work combines unexpected elements without creating conflicts. It showcases a fusion of a child’s childhood memories and losses from a personal and national tragedy, with the “magical images” from popular illustrated magazines and “exotic” landscapes and buildings from early tourist guides and posters. His work mirrors the artist’s truth and triumph of life, depicting his struggle for survival. It is a reflection of his past experiences, as well as his virtual future, where he combines what he lost and gained in his art. This unique “space” is where everything comes together and blends harmoniously. In this space, revolutions are essential but not violent, and the past is not forgotten but instead serves as a catalyst for progress. This is where G. Ioannou’s characters, stories, and settings are acknowledged and familiarised.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Curator: Dimitris Ioannou, visual artist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exhibition duration: June 23 to August 12, 2023<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Municipal Art Gallery of Thessaloniki -Casa Bianca <\/p>\n\n\n\n
182 Vas. Olgas and Them. Sofouli Streets, 54646, Thessaloniki<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 10.00-20.00, Saturday: 10.00-16.00<\/p>\n\n\n\n